Smart doorbells have become an essential part of modern home security, offering more than just a way to know when someone's at your door. Let's dive into how Ring's Wired Doorbell Pro ($149.99) and Battery Doorbell ($59.99) stack up against each other, helping you make an informed decision for your home.
Ring revolutionized home security with their first video doorbell in 2014. Since then, they've continuously refined their offerings into two main categories: wired and battery-powered devices. The Wired Pro represents their premium hardwired solution, while the Battery Doorbell offers a more accessible, flexible option.
The Wired Pro requires existing doorbell wiring (16-24 VAC), which might sound intimidating but serves a purpose. This permanent connection ensures consistent power for advanced features and uninterrupted operation. While professional installation is recommended, tech-savvy homeowners can handle it themselves in about 30 minutes. The key is ensuring your transformer (the device that converts your home's power to doorbell-friendly voltage) is compatible.
In contrast, the Battery model's installation is remarkably straightforward. It mounts to any surface with included screws and can be positioned virtually anywhere. This flexibility is perfect for renters or homes without existing doorbell wiring. The quick-release mount design, new to this model, makes battery charging much more convenient than previous generations.
The Wired Pro shines with 1536p HD+ video quality, which isn't just about resolution - it includes HDR (High Dynamic Range) for better handling of bright and dark areas in the same frame. The Battery model delivers standard 1080p HD, which is still quite good for most purposes but lacks the extra clarity in challenging lighting conditions.
Here's where the technical differences really matter:
Both models work with Ring's ecosystem and Amazon Alexa, but there are notable differences in advanced features:
Having tested both models, the Wired Pro consistently outperforms in several key areas:
The Battery Doorbell performs admirably for its price point but shows its limitations:
Both models benefit from a Ring Protect subscription ($3.99/month or $39.99/year) for video recording and advanced features. The Wired Pro has no additional costs, while the Battery version may require a second battery ($29.99) if you want to avoid downtime during charging.
The Wired Pro has received several firmware updates since release, improving motion detection accuracy and adding features like package alerts. The Battery model, being newer, incorporates lessons learned from previous generations, particularly in power management and mount design.
The Wired Pro and Battery Doorbell serve different needs while sharing Ring's core security features. The Wired Pro justifies its higher price through superior performance and advanced features, making it ideal for homeowners wanting the best protection. The Battery model offers impressive value, providing essential features in a more flexible package perfect for renters or those wanting a simpler solution.
Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, but both models deliver on Ring's reputation for reliable home security. Consider your installation capabilities, desired features, and long-term plans when making your decision.
Remember: While the price difference is significant, the long-term benefits of the Wired Pro might outweigh the initial savings of the Battery model for some users. However, the Battery version's flexibility and lower cost make it an excellent choice for many situations where premium features aren't essential.
| Ring Wired Doorbell Pro | Ring Battery Doorbell |
|---|---|
| Video Quality - Higher resolution means clearer identification of people and packages | |
| 1536p HD+ with HDR | 1080p HD |
| Power Source - Affects reliability and maintenance needs | |
| Hardwired (16-24 VAC, continuous power) | Rechargeable battery (2-6 months per charge) |
| Motion Detection - Better detection means fewer false alerts | |
| 3D Motion Detection with Bird's Eye View | Basic PIR motion detection with zones |
| Field of View - Wider angles capture more of your doorstep | |
| 150° horizontal, 150° vertical | 150° horizontal, 150° vertical |
| Night Vision - Critical for clear footage after dark | |
| Color night vision with HDR | Standard infrared night vision |
| Installation Requirements - Consider your DIY comfort level | |
| Professional installation recommended, requires existing doorbell wiring | DIY-friendly, no wiring needed |
| Smart Features - Additional convenience and security | |
| Alexa Greetings, Quick Replies, Pre-roll video | Basic two-way talk, motion alerts |
| Price - Initial investment consideration | |
| $149.99 + potential installation costs | $59.99 no additional costs |
| Operating Temperature - Important for extreme climates | |
| -20°C to 50°C | -20.5°C to 50°C |
| Response Time - Affects how quickly you can view live footage | |
| Near instant (typically <1 second) | Slight delay (2-3 seconds) from sleep mode |
The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro ($149.99) offers superior video quality and advanced features, making it better for those wanting premium performance. However, the Ring Battery Doorbell ($59.99) is better for easy installation and flexibility of placement.
The main difference is power source - the Wired Pro requires existing doorbell wiring but provides constant power, while the Battery Doorbell runs on rechargeable batteries and can be installed anywhere.
If you have existing doorbell wiring and want features like 1536p HD+ video, 3D motion detection, and color night vision, the Ring Wired Pro is worth the premium. For basic monitoring, the Battery Doorbell provides excellent value.
The Ring Battery Doorbell is significantly easier to install with simple DIY mounting. The Wired Pro requires hardwiring and often professional installation.
Yes, both doorbells can stream video to smart TVs and home theater displays through Amazon Echo Show or Fire TV devices. The Wired Pro offers higher resolution video that looks better on larger screens.
The Ring Wired Pro delivers 1536p HD+ video with HDR, while the Battery Doorbell provides 1080p HD. The difference is noticeable, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
The Wired Pro features color night vision with HDR for better detail in low light. The Battery Doorbell uses standard infrared night vision, which is effective but less detailed.
Yes, both doorbells work with Alexa, but the Wired Pro offers additional features like Alexa Greetings and Quick Replies, which aren't available on the Battery Doorbell.
The Ring Battery Doorbell typically lasts 2-6 months per charge, depending on usage and settings. The Wired Pro doesn't require charging.
Yes, both the Ring Wired Pro and Battery Doorbell can be viewed on multiple smartphones, tablets, computers, and compatible smart displays simultaneously through the Ring app.
The Ring Battery Doorbell is ideal for rentals due to its wire-free installation and portability. The Wired Pro requires permanent installation, making it better for homeowners.
Both the Ring Wired Pro and Battery Doorbell require a Ring Protect subscription ($3.99/month) to access recorded video and advanced features, though basic live view and alerts work without a subscription.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: bestbuy.com - surveillance-video.com - youtube.com - security.org - de-de.ring.com - ring.com - target.com - bestbuy.com - abt.com - blackwiredesigns.com - youtube.com - ring.com - samsung.com - ring.com - pcrichard.com - marketplace.ladwp.com - ae-en.ring.com - batteries4pro.com - de-de.ring.com - de-de.ring.com - careyscommunications.com
